Arrayán
Category: Tree
Native tree highly valued for its spectacular cinnamon-colored bark and elegant appearance. It's one of the most ornamental species in the Chilean forest and works very well as a feature tree in moist gardens.
Characteristics
- Watering
- • Moderate • Keep moisture constant • Does not tolerate extreme drought
- Soil
- • Moist • Rich in organic matter • Prefers acidic to neutral soil
- Blooms
- December – February Decorative white blooms
- Exposure
- • Partial sun • Tolerates shade
- Fruit
- Yes (small berries) • Small fruit, not widely used
- Size
- • Height: 5–15 m • Compact, ornamental canopy • Slow to moderate growth
- Use
- • High-value ornamental • Premium gardens and landscaping
- Propagation
- • Seeds • Cuttings (slower)
- Medicinal
- In folk tradition, arrayán's leaves have been used gently, sometimes in fragrant herbal teas. It is credited with astringent and digestive properties, though these uses should be regarded as traditional and are not a substitute for medical care.